2019 Chateau Certan de May, Pomerol

The 2019 Certan de May has turned out very well, offering up aromas of rich cherries, cassis, loamy soil and creamy but nicely integrated new oak. Full-bodied, layered and lively, with fine concentration, powdery tannins and a long, penetrating finish, this is beautifully balanced Pomerol that no doubt benefits from the perspective of consultant Jean-Claude Berrouet.

Cedar, sweet pipe tobacco, menthol and anise are some of the notes that lift from the 2019 Certan de May. Medium in body, pliant and expressive, the 2019 has much to recommend it. Today, the 2019 is perhaps just a touch introspective, but there is plenty going on here.

The 2019 Certan de May is a curious Pomerol. As I mentioned in my note from barrel, it has an open-knit nose of red berry fruit, touches of black tea, white pepper and damp earth. The palate is cohesive on the entry with light tannins, and a little more angular than its peers (especially juxtaposed against the Hosanna). It seems to be a little pinched and lacks the peacock’s tail that defines many 2019 Pomerols. It just leaves me wanting more.

65% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Franc, 5% Cabernet Sauvignon. Barrel sample. Deep crimson hue. Enticing nose of ripe, dark fruit with a definite cassis tone. Sweet (perhaps oak-nuanced) attack then lots of gushing fruit. Round and gourmand but plentiful tannins behind. Saline finish again. Lots going on. (JL)